Some school decisions clearly need the input of Deaf staff and community members; others do not. This answer key pairs with a training activity that asks teams to sort common decisions by how much they depend on Deaf experience and lived knowledge. Use it as the facilitator's guide: it explains why setting communication norms, planning events, choosing interpreters, and running safety drills call for Deaf expertise, while routine tasks like ordering supplies do not. It helps leaders build the habit of seeking Deaf experience where it genuinely improves access, accuracy, and belonging.
Because of your selected audience type, you may also enjoy the following related resources.
A self-check teachers can use to reflect on communication access, respect and inclusion, honoring Deaf expertise, and their part in a strong ASL/English bilingual school climate.
A self-check school leaders use to review schoolwide communication access, respect and inclusion, meaningful Deaf involvement in decisions, and how they model a ASL/English bilingual climate.
A training slide deck staff use together to explore what a strong ASL/English school climate looks like, covering access, respect, Deaf expertise, and leadership, through discussion and scenarios.